📍 Mogadishu, Somalia | 📅 July 1, 2025

To mark Somalia’s 65th Independence Day, Kick4Peace brought together communities, athletes, and changemakers in Mogadishu for a powerful women’s football event that celebrated freedom, unity, and female empowerment through sport.

A Celebration of Freedom and Inclusion

On a day when the nation honored its hard-won independence, Kick4Peace chose to spotlight the strength and potential of Somali women and girls. The event featured a friendly tournament between four women’s football teams, transforming the football pitch into a stage for celebration, pride, and progress.

Players took to the field with energy and determination, proudly representing their communities and showing the power of sport to break barriers and build peace.

More Than a Game

This wasn’t just football. It was a statement.

🎤 Local leaders, youth voices, and women’s rights advocates opened the day with inspiring words on the importance of gender equality, youth leadership, and the unifying power of sport.

🎶 Cultural performances, traditional songs, and poetry brought the crowd together in celebration of Somali identity and resilience.

🕊️ Messages of peace and hope echoed from the pitch to the stands, reminding everyone that sport can be a force for healing, dialogue, and positive change.

Community Impact

• 👟 2 local women’s teams participated

• 👥 100+ attendees, including families, community leaders, and media

• 🧍‍♀️ Dozens of young women played in front of a public crowd  many for the first time

• 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 5 youth volunteers helped coordinate the event

The atmosphere was electric  proud parents cheering, young girls watching in awe, and players walking off the field with their heads held high.

What We Learned

✅ Somali women are ready for the spotlight
✅ Communities are eager to support inclusive events
✅ Football is an incredible platform for change

Gratitude & Looking Ahead

A huge thank you to everyone who made this event possible the players, coaches, volunteers, community partners, and supporters. Your energy and passion brought this day to life.

At Kick4Peace, we believe this is just the beginning. We’re committed to growing women’s football in Somalia and continuing to use sport to unite and empower.

Stay tuned for more events, stories, and ways to get involved. Together, we’re kicking for peace  and a better future for all.